Market on the Square

A number of people turned out Saturday for the first Market Festival on the Square of the 2011 year. There were 18 vendors Saturday selling everything from boiled peanuts to vegetables and fruits, homemade baked goods, handmade items and original oil paintings. Southern Crescent Technical College even had a spot promoting upcoming classes.

The Monticello-Jasper County Chamber of Commerce is coordinating the festival this year. Until recently, the future of the market was in question because of a lack of funding. However a private contribution and an agreement by the Monticello City Council has assured funding at least through June. The market will continue to open each Saturday in June from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Anyone interested in participating in the market should contact Preston Wynens, market manager, at 706-468-8583 for more information. The purpose of the market is to support local and statewide small scale farmers and gardeners, crafts-persons and artisans. It is also a way to help promote the local county agencies and schools by allowing them to provide information and give away promotional items.